WILL Evans’ six-figure move from Newport County AFC to Mansfield has been confirmed with owner Huw Jenkins admitting it was ‘an offer we couldn’t turn down’.

The 27-year-old mid-Walian will move up to test himself in League One with the Stags after two seasons at Rodney Parade.

Evans, who earned a shot as a pro thanks to his Cymru Premier efforts with Cardiff Met and Bala, made 107 appearances for County.

Last season he caught the eye with 25 goals, 21 of them in League Two, and owner Huw Jenkins said at the start of July that “tentative” offers had already been rejected.

Now Mansfield have decided to take the plunge and get a deal done to see if Evans can repeat his goal-scoring exploits in the third tier.

The Argus understands that they will pay a fee that could hit £200,000 with add-ons for the hard-working forward, who has signed a two-year deal.

That represents a good deal for County after they triggered an extra year on Evans’ contract at the end of last season.

It’s a move that suits all parties with the forward getting a chance to step up a level with Nigel Clough’s side, where he will be reunited with former Exiles full-back/midfielder Aaron Lewis.

PROLIFIC: Will Evans had a superb 2023/24 for Newport CountyPROLIFIC: Will Evans had a superb 2023/24 for Newport County (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

“It was a decision which wasn’t made lightly, as I’ve created memories that will live with me forever," said Evans.

“The club gave me an opportunity two years ago and I can easily say it’s been the best two years. For now it’s time to say goodbye, to undertake a new challenge, one that I personally couldn’t turn down. 

“I gave everything for Newport County and I hope you felt I did as well. I wish nothing but success for the club in the upcoming season and the forthcoming years.”

County chairman Huw Jenkins believes that the move works for all parties, even if they are sad to lose a prolific forward.

The owner said: “We are obviously disappointed to lose Will after such a good campaign last season but he is in the last year of his contract and expressed a strong desire to test himself at a higher level.

“We discussed the situation with Will and his agent over the summer and we agreed that if a reasonable offer came in then we would both move forward with clarity.

“The club is still at a rebuilding stage after a difficult few years’ financially, so it was an offer we couldn’t turn down at this stage in our journey.

“Will joined the professional game late in his career and is no doubt eager to play at the highest level he can to continue his climb up the footballing ladder.

“I’m sure everyone would like to wish Will good luck with his new challenge and thank him for his hard work, dedication and commitment to the club over the last few seasons.”